Nearly two-thirds of elderly people in the north Brisbane area who live in their own homes are at risk of suffering life-changing falls, data collected by community and aged care specialist Spiritus has found.

Spiritus is taking a proactive approach to healthcare because in many instances these falls can be prevented.

Spiritus Occupational Therapists assessed nearly 100 elderly clients during March – June. In most instances, this was the first time these clients had been seen by an Occupational Therapist

The assessments highlighted physical, sensory, social and  psychological issues, which can impact a person’s safety and their ability to live independently at home.

An informal survey found that 62% of the people assessed had a high or moderate risk of experiencing a fall.

Assistant Director Community and Aged Care, Mr Christopher King said elderly people who lived alone and had not been assessed by an occupational therapist were most at risk of falls.

“Personal safety is a major concern and elderly people should seek the assessment and advice of occupational therapists. OTs can help reduce the risk by assessing homes and identifying ways to make them safer and by making arrangement for suitable additional practical support,” Mr King said.

The Occupational Therapists found additional alarming information that further emphasised the need for the elderly to seek assistance to improve their personal safety:

• 62% of the elderly people assessed had a high or moderate risk of experiencing a fall.
• 25% of those assessed required home modifications to improve home safety.
• 60% experienced moderate to high difficulties when moving around the home.
• Up to 80% of clients live alone or have limited family support

To address some of these findings, Spiritus is holding education sessions for its clients offering information on how to reduce falls and other practical advice to improve independence at homes.

The Spiritus sessions are held in Northgate, Clayfield, and Zillmere. To become clients of Spiritus and take advantage of the groups and also receive in-home treatment by an occupational therapists and physiotherapists, please contact 1300 785 853

Further information:

John Austin   Communications and Media Manager

jaustin@anglicanbrisbane.org.au